New Renault Megane launches in Ireland

The new fourth generation Renault Megane is now available here priced from €19,490.

The new five-door hatchback, which has received a five-star Euro NCAP rating, is available in five trim levels, including the entry 'Expression', two 'Dynamique', and two 'GTs'.

The new Megane is available with fuel-efficient, low-emission powertrains. There are two Energy TCe turbocharged petrol options of 1.2 litres/130hp and 1.6 litres/205hp (GT ). The turbodiesel alternatives are the 1.5-litre 110hp unit, with manual or EDC transmission, and a 1.6-litre dCi unit developing 130hp. The CO2 of the manual dCi 110 is just 96g/km, while at the other end of the scale the TCe 205 GT will be capable of 0-100km/h in 7.1 seconds and a top speed of more than 230km/h

The new Megane is lower, with a longer wheelbase and the widest front and rear track in the class – to give it even more dynamic and balanced proportions. The taut, precise appearance of the car is emphasised by broad, sculpted shoulders and wheels of up to 18 inches.

It has a distinctive front and rear lighting signatures are permanently lit when the engine is switched on. Unique-in-class features in include a configurable 7-inch thin film transistor colour instrument display, R-LINK 2 connectivity systems via either a 7-inch landscape or 8.7-inch portrait tablet, multi-sense technology to personalise the driving experience and, on the GT version, 4Control four-wheel steering.

The cabin has high-quality, soft-touch materials. There is an unmistakable cockpit feel to the car thanks to the design of the centre console. Upholstery on the sculpted, accommodating seats has been inspired by leather goods and stylish furnishings. Discreet top-stitching on the seats and door panels further underlines the all-new Megane’s quality.

The sporty and dynamic appearance of the new model is even more evident on the GT-Line versions. Specific front and rear bumpers, elliptical chrome exhaust tailpipe and a profiled diffuser hint at the car’s sporty character and there are dark metal 17 or 18-inch alloy wheels.

In 2017 a hybrid assist diesel-electric powertrain will be added to the range, based on the Energy dCi 110 unit. Renault is targeting a class-leading CO2 figure of 76g/km, with fuel economy in the NEDC combined cycle below 2.9 l/100km. The GT range will be extended in 2017 with the addition of a new 1.6-litre dCi 165 unit, with a new seven-speed EDC transmission. The hybrid assist version will be preceded by the sport tourer model to follow later this year (2016 ).

Renault says the new Megane allows owners to personalise the driving experience via multi-sense. Accessed via the R-LINK 2 display, multi-sense features customisable driving programmes, which adapt engine sounds, steering response, engine power and the LED ambient lighting. In the GT version the button is labelled RS Drive, and gives instant access to sport mode.

Renault says the Megane is available from €155 per month with Renault Finance with three per cent APR. It also comes with three years servicing and five years warranty. This offer is available on cars ordered and registered before August 31.